Orono_Route_Permit_Application - Docket # W002/TL-11-223

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The Phase Ia background research revealed that no archaeological site or inventoried standing structure is recorded within the proposed Project. A total of 34 previously recorded cultural resource properties were located within the proposed Project Area. The site file search identified 15 archaeological sites and 19 inventoried historic architectural properties located within one mile of the Project. The Phase Ia Report in Appendix E provides more information on these sites. Of the 15 archaeological sites, thirteen are pre -contact and consist of. six lithic scatters, two artifact scatters, three single artifact finds, and two Native American earthwork. The remaining two sites consist of post -contact historic structural ruins with associated artifact scatters. None of the previously recorded artifact scatters are listed in the National Register CEF by the SHPO. Of the 19 historic architectural properties none are listed on the National Register of Historic Places ("NRHP") or CEF. Based upon these findings, the potential for the Project to impact any undiscovered archaeological site is low because the Project is proposed to be located at the existing Orono Substation site, and along existing transportation corridors or it is located in areas already disturbed by residential and commercial development. However, the URS archaeologist identified one area of concern at the proposed Orono Substation replacement site. The Phase Ia Report recommends that archaeological field surveys be initiated in areas previously undisturbed prior to construction at the Orono Substation replacement site. On April 13, 2011, Xcel Energy submitted a consultation letter with a copy of the Phase Ia Report to the SHPO requesting SHPO written agreement with the Phase Ia Report findings and recommendations for the Project. The SHPO responded by letter on May 12, 2011, and concurred with the conclusions and recommendations of the Phase Ia Report (see Appendix E). The SHPO indicated that a full field survey needs to be performed at two locations within the Project area. Xcel Energy will continue to work with the Minnesota SHPO to determine the appropriate next steps for the Project. Mitigative Measures As determined in the Phase Ia Report, no property listed or eligible for listing on the NRHP or the Minnesota Register of Historic Sites is located at or near the Project. However, several previously recorded cultural resource properties were located within one mile of the proposed Project area, and surveys are recommended for specific previously undisturbed Project locations. Xcel Energy implement the SHPO recommendations and will continue to work with the SHPO regarding possible impacts from the Project. If there is an unanticipated discovery of cultural resources during Project construction, Xcel Energy will stop construction activities and consult with a professional archaeologist and the Minnesota SHPO to determine the proper course of action. If a cultural item or feature is determined to be potentially eligible for listing on the NRHP, it will be avoided or mitigated before construction resumes. 6.5 Natural Environment 6.5.1 Air Quality Potential air quality effects related to transmission facilities include fugitive dust emissions during construction, exhaust emissions from construction equipment, and ozone generation during Orono Project June 7, 2011 MPUC Docket No. E002/TL-11-223 52